Pulmonary Embolism (Residuals)

DC 6817Respiratory38 CFR 4.97, DC 6817

A blood clot that traveled to the lungs. The VA rates the lasting effects (residuals) of a pulmonary embolism based on how much it affects your heart and lung function after the initial event has resolved.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 6817

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.97, DC 6817. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have chronic pulmonary thromboembolism with evidence of pulmonary hypertension, right ventricular hypertrophy, or cor pulmonale (right heart failure), or you have had a pulmonary embolectomy.

What the VA looks for

Primary pulmonary hypertension
Cor pulmonale (right heart failure)
Right ventricular hypertrophy
Pulmonary hypertension confirmed by Echo or catheterization
History of pulmonary embolectomy
Severe exercise limitation or supplemental oxygen

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting ongoing anticoagulant use — if you are on blood thinners long-term after a PE, this supports at least a 30% rating. Bring your medication records.
⚠Not getting an echocardiogram — right heart changes (pulmonary hypertension, right ventricular dysfunction) move the rating from 30% to 60% or 100%. Ask your doctor for follow-up cardiac imaging.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — a pulmonary embolism can lead to chronic pulmonary hypertension, exercise intolerance, and anxiety/PTSD from the life-threatening event.
⚠Assuming the condition is "resolved" without testing — even after the acute clot resolves, lasting damage to the lungs and heart may persist. Get follow-up PFTs and echocardiograms.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Respiratory Conditions (other than Tuberculosis and Sleep Apnea)

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Pulmonary Embolism (Residuals) or rated under the same body system.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

DC 6847·Respiratory

Bronchial Asthma

DC 6602·Respiratory

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Allergic Rhinitis

Chronic Sinusitis

Sarcoidosis

Bronchiectasis

Pulmonary Fibrosis (Interstitial Lung Disease)

DC 6833·Respiratory

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6817

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have chronic pulmonary thromboembolism with evidence of pulmonary hypertension, right ventricular hypertrophy, or cor pulmonale (right heart failure), or you have had a pulmonary embolectomy.

What the VA looks for

Primary pulmonary hypertension
Cor pulmonale (right heart failure)
Right ventricular hypertrophy
Pulmonary hypertension confirmed by Echo or catheterization
History of pulmonary embolectomy
Severe exercise limitation or supplemental oxygen

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting ongoing anticoagulant use — if you are on blood thinners long-term after a PE, this supports at least a 30% rating. Bring your medication records.

⚠Not getting an echocardiogram — right heart changes (pulmonary hypertension, right ventricular dysfunction) move the rating from 30% to 60% or 100%. Ask your doctor for follow-up cardiac imaging.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — a pulmonary embolism can lead to chronic pulmonary hypertension, exercise intolerance, and anxiety/PTSD from the life-threatening event.

⚠Assuming the condition is "resolved" without testing — even after the acute clot resolves, lasting damage to the lungs and heart may persist. Get follow-up PFTs and echocardiograms.